Alex Clemmie is like a wild mustang that needs training. He has the best athleticism and potential in the world, but he needs to reign to unleash all of his talent.
Clemmy has a lot of raw potential, but right now he’s just raw. That’s fine for the young left-hander, who doesn’t turn 20 until July. He has plenty of time to solve his problems and realize his full potential.
Despite those odds, the Guardians decided to trade him as part of the package that sent Lane Thomas to Cleveland. This move made sense for the Guardians, who needed outfield help. Clemmy’s talent is immense, but he’s still years away from reaching the big leagues. This trade could look like a big win for the Nats if Clemmie hits, but it’s still a big “what if” story.
Clemmy signed a $2.3 million over-slot contract with the Guardians after being drafted in the first round in 2023. He was very young for his draft class, only 17 years old on draft day. He’s from Rhode Island, which may explain some of his rawness. A lot of Northeastern prospects don’t tend to progress as much because they don’t get to play year-round like the kids in Florida.
In his first professional season, Clemmie pitched 92.1 innings with a 4.58 ERA. But the youngster’s disastrous first month has only swelled that total. ERA 12.60 He walked 15 batters in 15 innings. After that brutal start, Clemmie adapted to professional baseball, finishing with an ERA above 4 for just one month.
Control is a big issue for Clemmy. Last season, he walked six batters per nine innings, a number he needs to improve on. he violent childbirthand when he’s not right, his mechanics can waver. However, thanks to the appliance, he struck out 9 of 12 batters.
His arsenal is a combination of an explosive fastball and slider. Clemmie’s heater is in the mid-90s, and he gets to hitters quickly thanks to his 6’6 frame and funky batting pitch. But his slider could be even better. It’s a truly devastating pitch, coming in at around 85 mph, and the fastball goes through the tunnel beautifully. Until batters see Clemmy, they can’t tell whether they’re hitting a fastball or a slider until it’s too late. As is the case with most teenage pitchers, his changeup is inferior in quality to his top two pitches.
This explosiveness, combined with fierce throws and scatter control, makes him a risk for relievers. There is some comparisons to free agent reliever Tanner Scott. But with such a young pitcher, it’s too early to categorize him. Clemmie still has room to grow and can hone his weapons. The Nationals should and will give him every opportunity to start.
Clemmy will likely start next season at High-A Wilmington, where he will likely spend most, if not all, of the season. Alex Clemmy will be a slow burn and will require patience. However, if properly trained, they can become true thoroughbreds.
